The semiconductor IC market has been stalled at a value of about $300 billion for several years now.

Unit volumes have increased steadily at an average of about 10 or 11 percent but the "consumerization" of the electronics has meant that average selling prices (ASPs) have fallen by about the same amount.

That means margins are getting squeezed which in turn is driving established manufacturers out of the market in favor a few very high volume makers (foundries).